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Padma Lakshmi: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

Padma Lakshmi is a gorgeous TV personality and model who has been making headlines recently. Read on for the facts on her rumored relationship with one of our favorite A-listers, her upcoming reality TV gigs, her dating past, and the background behind the large scar she has on her arm.

As Richard Gere films a new movie in New York, the rumor is that he has been seeing Padma Lakshmi, who resides in Manhattan.

2. Billionaire Teddy Forstmann Was Lakshmi’s Boyfriend Until He Died

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In 2011, billionaire Teddy Forstmann died of cancer, and girlfriend Padma Lakshmi was by his side, according to Us Weekly. Forstmann was actually Princess Diana’s ex-financier and left a trust fund for Lakshmi’s daughter.

3. She Fought to Have Daughter Named Krishna

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After suffering for years with endometriosis, which is associated with infertility, Lakshmi became pregnant with daughter Krishna Thea Lakshmi, who is now 3 years old. While it was a struggle to finally get pregnant, it was also a struggle to keep custody, according to Wikipedia.

Although the father’s identity was not initially given, it was later revealed to be venture capitalist Adam Dell. In January 2011, Dell sued Lakshmi for sole custody of their daughter. They reached an agreement in March 2012, settling out of court, with Dell being granted increased custody and visitation rights and their daughter’s full name changed to Krishna Thea Lakshmi-Dell.

4. A Car Accident When She Was a Teen Left Her Scarred

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When Lakshmi was 14 years old, she was involved in a bad car accident. She described the incident to Vogue saying:

Being in a car crash was like an exhilarating hallucination, an unbelievable moment that oddly remains one of the most beautiful images in my memory.

The accident left Lakshmi with a fractured right hip and shattered upper right arm, which required surgery, leaving her with a 7-inch scar from her elbow to shoulder.

5. Lakshmi Will Be Hosting Reality Competition Top Chef Again This Season

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Lakshmi joined the cast of reality show Top Chef in its second season and has been the host ever since. Currently, the show is on board for a twelfth season, which will air in late 2014.

Lauren Weigleis a senior contributor to Heavy specializing in celebrity and reality television. She has an extensive background in entertainment, fashion, PR, lifestyle and journalism. Follow her on Twitter @NYCPRTeam.April 21, 2014 12:15 pm